Warning about dangers of blue-green algae

Hot and dry weather conditions have led to increase in algae production

East Lothian Council is issuing a reminder to people to be on the lookout for blooms of potentially hazardous blue-green algae in the area’s waterways including rivers and ponds.

Blue-green algae are tiny organisms which develop naturally in lochs, ponds, reservoirs, rivers and in the sea. They are a common seasonal occurrence and waters, which have been affected by agricultural, domestic or industrial discharges, are most at risk of developing the algae.

Dog owners should keep an eye on their pets

Cllr Norman Hampshire, Environment Spokesperson

The algae can multiply during the summer months and discolour the water which appears green, blue-green or greenish brown and, occasionally, they clump together to form a scum on the surface of the water. At the shoreline, algal crusts may appear brown to almost black in colour.

People and animals can be affected as a result of direct contact with water affected by blue-green algae and we are advising the public, especially people undertaking water sports, anglers and dog owners, to be alert to the blooms as temperatures rise. If blue green lgae is suspected, people and animals should avoid direct contact and seek advice.

“Our Environmental Health team routinely monitors levels of blue-green algae over the warmer months because of the potential health risk to people and to animals,” explained Councillor Norman Hampshire, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment.

“Canoeists, wind surfers and swimmers who come into contact with the algal scum or who accidentally swallow affected water can suffer from complaints such as skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, or pains in muscles and joints. These symptoms are usually mild, but in some cases, can be severe.

“The risk to small animals like dogs is significant over the summer months as they tend to drink more water in the heat and may eat shoreline algal crusts. Dog owners should keep an eye on their pets, especially if they come into contact with water which could be affected.

“The public should be reassured that public water supplies are always treated to prevent any harmful effects to health due to blue-green algae.”

Where monitoring reveals higher than acceptable levels of algal bloom, warning notices will be posted at the affected waterways.

Anyone who finds a loch, pond or river which they suspect is affected by blue-green algae and which is not displaying a warning sign, should contact Environmental Health or Sport, Countryside and Leisure on 01620 827365 or 01620 827423. ehts@eastlothian.gov.uk